Head Start

The City of Oakland Head Start/Early Head Start is a federally and state funded early childhood education program aimed to promote school readiness of children ages birth to five for low-income families by supporting their growth and development.

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The City of Oakland Head Start/Early Head Start is a
federally and state funded early childhood education program aimed to promote
school readiness of children ages birth to five for low-income families by
supporting their growth and development. The program offers free early
childhood education and care, prenatal education and family services to
eligible Oakland residents. Families experiencing homelessness and in foster
care are automatically eligible and encouraged to apply!

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Children’s readiness for school and beyond is fostered through individualized learning experiences. Head Start and Early Head Start prepare children for kindergarten, using a variety of learning experiences for each individual child. Staff and parents work together to implement an Individual Development Plan for each child. The program focuses on every child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth and development.

HEALTH SERVICES The program emphasizes the importance of preventive health care, and early identification and intervention of health problems. All children receive health and development screenings, vision screenings, dental care and mental health support.

FAMILY SERVICES Beginning with a Family Partnership Agreement, families are given the opportunity to set goals and seek assistance from staff for referrals to agencies to help meet their goals. Head Start also networks with Community Partners to link into services and resources for families. Programs support and strengthen parent-child relationships and engage families around children’s learning and development.

DISABILITIES SERVICES 10% of slots are reserved for children with disabilities who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).

NUTRITION SERVICES Every child is served nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snacks daily.